Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy may be aware, the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy has been developed to deliver an accessible, integrated transport network, including rail network, that enables the sustainable growth of Cork up to 2040.

Good progress has been made in delivering key projects within the Strategy, including the Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme. This Programme involves the delivery of increased capacity, frequency and sustainability on the three commuter rail lines between Cobh and Midleton in east Cork, Mallow to the north, and Cork Kent station in the city centre.

More specifically, the Programme aims to provide for:

• The development and integration of the three rail corridors by providing a high-frequency north-east connection through the city centre between Cobh, Midleton and Mallow;
• A multimodal integrated transport hub at Kent Station;
• Additional rolling stock to meet existing and future demand;
• New stations and Park & Ride interchange points.

Phase 1 of the Programme consists of a signalling upgrade, a through-platform at Kent Station, and double-tracking from Glounthaune to Midleton. This phase has received EU Funding under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. Work is well underway for this phase and is on schedule to be completed by the end of 2026.

The Programme also plans for the delivery of up to eight new stations in future on the commuter corridors. Under the programme eight new stations are proposed at the following locations:

Tivoli, Dunkettle, Water Rock, Carrigtwohill West, Ballynoe, Blackpool / Kilbarry, Monard and Blarney / Stoneview.

Works to facilitate the new stations are at an early design stage. Following the completion of Phase 1, these works will progress subject to funding availability and the relevant approvals.

As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure, including the Cork Area Commuter Rail project.

Noting the NTA's responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for a direct reply. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.